Standards Check what happens if things go wrong.
When you look at a DL25 test form you get a general idea of what topic the candidate has failed on. For example, section 12, Control – steering.
So the candidate did something wrong relating to steering. But what? It’s impossible to know unless you were at the debrief.
The back of the DL25 has the explanation Steer the vehicle as smoothly as possible. Avoid harsh steering, or steering too early or too late as it may cause you to hit the kerb or swing out towards another road user
Well, that narrows it down doesn’t it?
Candidates’ on test have always had the right to request a copy of the written report the examiner makes on the back of the marking sheet after the test. This report gives a detailed explanation of the faults, including where on the test route it happened.
Getting the report is often useful in clarifying what the fault was, and helps the candidate to fully understand the reason for failure.
It’s the same for the check test. You get the general sheet which shows you the scores, and you listen to the debrief, but if you still want more information, or you have a query or dispute, you request a copy of the report. This report also contains all the little notes the examiner made during the test to help him make the final assessment.
But from April that is going to change. Under the new standards check system, the only bit of paper you will get is the SC1 form, which similar to the DL25 will give you a general resume of the assessment.
For example: TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGIES –
Was the pupil encouraged to analyse problems and take responsibility for their learning?
The only possible answer to that question is either number 1, 2 or 3.
A score of 1 means the answer is no. If that’s the assessment, how about some explanation as to on what basis the assessment was made rather than just a number?
If 1 means no, and 3 means yes, does a 2 mean maybe?